Foster: BV7 is a step in the right direction

LOUISVILLE - Dalton P. Foster said that while he would prefer to see the International Joint Commission (IJC) adopt B+, the proposal theyre looking at BV7 is better than the plan they have now, one thats been in place since 1958.

I think that B+ would be better, but BV7 is better than what is in place, he said. Its a small step forward.

The IJC is an international governing body in charge of policies that affect international waters along the U.S./Canadian Border, including the St. Lawrence Seaway.

The plan currently being recommended by the IJC is one called BV7.

It helps restore the environment and follows more of the natural rhythm of nature, Mr. Foster, who serves as a technical consultant for the International Water Levels Coalition (IWLC), said.

The IWLC is an advocacy group working to protect the interests of those residing along the U.S./Canadian Border from Lake Ontario to the St. Lawrence River.

Referring to BV7, Mr. Foster said, It has quite a bit of variation in it. Its highs are going to be higher and its lows are going to be lower, but thats what happens naturally.

According to data presented by the IJC, the current plan, 1958DD would lead to 547 quarter-months with low water levels from mid-April to mid-October over the next 101 years. Meanwhile, Mr. Foster said BV7 will lead to 299 such periods, with B+ having low water for 144 quarter-months.

Mr. Foster explained quarter-months, a period of time roughly equal to one week, is the preferred time measurement period used by the IJC. The period of time from mid-April to mid-October serves as boating season in the region, making the water levels during that time important.

While Mr. Foster said BV7 is a step in the right direction, he said there have been some things that disappoint him about the plan and the IJCs handling of it.

They (IJC) are talking about an adoptive management program, he said. The problem is they havent described it at all.